As a Manufacturing focused Applications Engineer, I take great pride in contributing to the growth and development of my clients, assisting them in reaching their potential. With the take up of 3D printing growing rapidly, Redstack is now offering 3D printing products, services and support to guide their clients through the process of adopting this emerging technology.

3D printing is making significant impact at a commercial level in Australia. Its biggest asset is flexibility, with the current commercial applications around the country putting this on display. Recent projects include a house that was 3D printed from powder and a titanium bone replacement produced in a similar manner.

This was taken up another level by a Melbourne firm that successfully 3D printed a functioning jet engine - a world first. These projects have set a pretty high standard for the industry's growth, but should provide motivation for people who are still considering taking the plunge.

The main challenge for the industry, in my experience, is a hesitance for people to jump in head first. It's not as expensive as some assume, and consumers can now easily access printers. In all honesty, people need to get in and try it for themselves. It's a lot more fun to light the fireworks yourself than to stand by and watch them go off!

Ultimately, professional involvement is necessary, which is where we come in. With 20 years in the 3D CAD and manufacturing industry, we know when a new technology is worth backing. Our experience also gives us the ability to make specific recommendations on a client-to-client basis.

With something as complex as 3D printing, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Clients require advice that is tailored to their manufacturing and prototyping needs. Without professional advice, we often see organisations invest in technologies that are not right for their business.

As a provider to industries such as architecture, engineering and manufacturing, Redstack is able to introduce 3D printing technology to businesses in these areas while finding a solution that fits. The tasks that 3D printers can perform extend the range of our software services, offering a cohesive approach to these industries that supports product development from design through to prototyping and production.

Often clients aren’t aware that 3D printing can save them a significant amount of time and lead to improved design in the product development phase, particularly when combined with 3D design software for prototyping. However, 3D printing is not just for prototyping, offering a great enough quality for printed parts to be used in commercial applications.

When used in combination with Autodesk software, 3D printing enables an idea to be designed, printed, modified and re-printed with fast turnaround times, providing engineers with rapid feedback and physical model, speeding up the design process.

Through its excellent product lineup of Autodesk software together with MakerBot and Ultimaker 3D printers and industry-leading support network, Redstack is well positioned to help our clients unlock the potential of their business with technology that is on the cutting edge of innovation, keeping them one step ahead of the competition. When purchasing new technologies, you want to know that it has been tried and tested by your vendor and they can offer the support you need to integrate new technologies into your business. With our extensive experience using 3D printers in combination with Autodesk software, Redstack are very well positioned to support your organisation in adopting 3D printing technology.

With the continued development of 3D printing technologies, you may be surprised by the low cost of 3D printing technology today. Redstack can also assist with 3D printing services, should you wish to trial printing your designs before investing in the technology yourself. Contact Redstack for pricing and further information.